Every year as
we get closer to ringing in the New Year, I ask and get asked "What are
your resolutions?" I come up with a few that don't last more than a
few weeks and then I'm back to the same old habits.

This year I
thought, "What if I call them something different instead of resolutions since
that's not working for me?" I came up with the term
"Determinations".

I think January
is a great month for being determined. ((Throughout January, I'll keep
referring back to that word so think about what it means to you.)) It's a
fresh start, a new chapter to our life book and we're ready to go! We
take each step forward focusing on our goals with no wavering.

I know the
words resolutions and determination are similar in definition. You could
come to a resolution or a determination of a situation. It's a settlement
or a decision.

When I think of
the two words, though, they feel different to me. I'm resolved to
something makes me feel like I made a decision but it isn't quite as
strong. But, if I'm determined, I picture myself moving down the road
with gusto, no one can stop me, nothing is in my way.

Plus,
resolution to me now has that connotation of not being committed. I make
a resolution and then toss it out the window in a few weeks. I've decided
to change it up to "Determinations" because the word is brand new and
means something different to me.

We can do this
with all kinds of words that don't have the intended purpose for us
anymore. Changing up the tone or the word we use can make it so that we
have a clean slate and it gives the idea or task a different energy.

So, what are
your "determinations" for 2011? I would love to hear them and
support you along the way! Mine are being even healthier in mind, body
and spirit, taking more time for myself and finding ways to relax and rest
every day. Feel free to share your determinations. Just remember,
you've got a whole year to work toward them!Whether
they are small or big, whether they take a week or a year to accomplish, remember,
they are important because they are yours. So go for them!